Cyrus Chestnut

Cyrus Chestnut

ASIN: B00000AEDK

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Pianist Cyrus Chestnut can do it all. Equally adept playing with trios, groups, or alone, he tackles a broad range of styles with both taste and intelligence on this eclectic disc. Joined by some of jazz's finest players--James Carter, Joe Lovano, Billy Higgins, and Ron Carter--Chestnut jumps from the funky group interplay of "The Journey" to the swinging romp "Sharp" and into the mainstream with the addition of R&B vocalist Anita Baker on "My Favorite Things" and "Summertime." On his own, Chestnut strides smoothly through the sly Art Tatum-influenced "Nutman's Inventions" before displaying his background in gospel and classical music on a pair of meditative ballads, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "Elegant Flower (for Jazz'min). A rich, satisfying sampling of jazz. --Erik Pedersen

From Jazziz
You'd think virtuosity would be enough. But these days jazz producers lose plenty of sleep cooking up album concepts to augment the artistry of their charges. Yves Beauvais has done a good job with Cyrus Chestnut's previous four discs, avoiding contrivance at every turn. Even the pair's most deliberate session, the 1996 hymns-and-spiritual album Blessed Quietness, had an utterly natural charm.

This time out, with Beauvais' help, Atlantic kingpin Ahmet Ertegun plays quarterback. And while it's a tad ironic that the pianist's first self-titled disc is also the first to feature a handful of guest stars, Cyrus Chestnut is a valuable addition to the pianist's ever-growing discography. Momentarily replacing the rhythm section that Chestnut uses in concert is the incredible team of Ron Carter and Billy Higgins, and riding the graceful bumps they create are James Carter and Joe Lovano. You expect the musicianship to be striking, and it is. The icing on the cake is that the rapport is sensational, too.

Milking Chestnut's affable tunes, Ertegun crafts an extremely suave kind of mainstream jazz that benefits all involved, especially Carter. On "Miss Thing" and "The Journey," Carter's florid approach to tenor is recalibrated just enough to beget an eloquence sometimes shrouded on his own discs. When he and Lovano hook up on "Sharp," hard bop takes on an utterly modern resonance. Less winning but not without charm are Anita Baker's strolls through "Summertime" and "My Favorite Things." The tunes are too obvious, and the celebrated pop vocalist's delivery comes off a tad prosaic.

As far as the leader goes, well, Chestnut becomes a deeper improvisor with each year. His latest solo flights, "Nutman's Invention No. 2" and "Great Is Thy Faithfulness," display two sides of a coin. The first is jaunty and clever; the second a gloryland meditation. In cahoots with the ensemble tracks, they allow the pianist's expertise to create its own world of ideas. Not a bad concept.

Cyrus Chestnut,Cyrus Chestnut,Atlantic / Wea,Contemporary Jazz,Hard Bop,Jazz,Jazz Music,Pop,Post-Bop

Genuine Chestnut
Average customer rating:

The Nut Man's winter soundtrack

Too traditional

Genuine Chestnut
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Cyrus Chestnut

Soul Food

Dark Before the Dawn

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Revelation

ASIN: B000E6EHPO
Release Date: 2006-02-28

Tracks:

The Brown Soldier
El Numero Tres
If
Ellen's Song
Mason Dixon Line
Baby Girl's Strut
The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
Eyes On The Prize
Through The Valley
I'm Walkin'
Lord, I Give Myself To You

Amazon.com

Born in 1963, Cyrus Chestnut has become for his generation what Oscar Peterson was for his: the crowd-pleasing-est of mainstream pianists. Like the mighty Oscar, though with less superhuman speed, the genial Cyrus possesses consummate technical facility, swings hard, is most comfortable in a trio, enjoys the presence of a guitarist and in his mission to entertain sometimes plays play down to the audience. "Genuine Chestnut," Chestnut's first Telarc album, does boast an easy-listening treatment (as if there can be any other kind) of the old Bread ballad, "If." And, keyed to a gentle, subtly shifting reading of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," the performance is unusually restrained. A timely treatment of Fats Domino's "I'm Walkin,'" one of three cuts featuring the excellent guitarist Russell Malone, is surprisingly bereft of New Orleans style. But with its soulful thrusts, balletic flourishes, and unabashedly warm-spirited playing, the music grows on you. Backed by bassist Michael Hawkins and drummer Neal Smith (and, most of the time, percussionist Steve Kroon), Chestnut crafts original tunes that deal in gospel, funk, and blues without ever calling attention to the cards they're holding. --Lloyd Sachs

Customer Reviews:

The Nut Man's winter soundtrack.......2006-06-27

A mostly mellow outing, Genuine Chestnut nonetheless captures the many moods of this versatile pianist. Drawing from the wellsprings of jazz, gospel, classical, pop and soul, the Baltimore native displays impeccable taste even as he funkifies himself on "Baby Girl's Strut," swings on the straightahead opener "The Brown Soldier" or races through "Mason Dixon Line." Guest guitarist Russell Malone augments the basic trio at times, taking the lead on a beautiful rendition of the old Bread ballad, "If," and a subtle stroll through Fats Domino's "I'm Walkin." But this is really Chestnut's show, and he places a premium on precision and feeling. His originals are never over the top, but are consistently tuneful, light and approachable. His solos are explosive but contained on the upbeat numbers, spacious and lyrical on the slower pieces. This is not groundbreaking stuff, just the sound of acoustic jazz present as good as it gets. --Jim Newsom

Originally published in Port Folio Weekly - February 28, 2006

Copyright 2006 Port Folio Weekly. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission.

Too traditional.......2006-04-26

Roly-poly Cyrus Chestnut has played with Christian McBride and Terrence Blanchard, and he took some creative chances with James Carter while playing keys on Gold Sounds, an album of jazzy Pavement covers. But *Genuine Chestnut* represents a return to the Nut Man's more hidebound roots. A ballad with bossa nova flourishes, "Ellen's Song" - written for Chestnut's wife - is one highlight, and in "Little Girl's Strut," listeners can visualize Chestnut's daughter Jazzmin swaying to the congas. "Mason-Dixon Line," with its upbeat stride runs, recalls Art Tatum - and it's the only time here that Chestnut is joined solely by his two sidemen, drummer Neal Smith and bassist Michael Hawkins (whose solo shines on Fats Domino's "I'm Walkin'"). But "Eyes on the Prize" and "Through the Valley" over-emphasize Steven Kroon's special percussion effects, and neither track develops its ideas' potential. Less adventurous than works by trio leaders like Brad Mehldau or even Bill Charlap, *Genuine Chestnut* is still recommended for fans of gospel- and Latin-inflected piano jazz.

Average customer rating:

A young master
y'gotta be kiddin'. . .
Great Cuts - Cyrus All The Way

Dark Before the Dawn
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Earth Stories
Revelation
Cyrus Chestnut
Genuine Chestnut
Soul Food

ASIN: B000002J3G
Release Date: 1995-02-14

Tracks:

Sentimentalia
Steps Of Trane
The Mirrored Window
Baroque Impressions
A Rare Gem
Call Me Later
Wright's Rolls and Butter
It Is Well (With My Soul)
Kattin'
Lovers' Paradise
My Funny Valentine
The Dark Before The Dawn

Customer Reviews:

A young master.......2000-08-04

There are so many great young jazz pianists out there right now, that's it's easy to take them for granted. Cyrus Chestnut is one of the very best, and he shows that with "The Dark Before the Dawn," his best release for my money.

Chestnut features shimmering single-note runs and thunderous chords. There's some McCoy Tyner in his playing, strong blues and a lot of church, but he's put it all together to create a sound that is his own. One of the great strengths of this CD is its variety, but you always hear Cyrus's distinctive voice.

In the course of this set, for example, he gives us the Tyneresque "Steps of Trane," the classical/jazz blend "Baroque Impressions," the standard "My Funny Valentine," and the bluesy "Wright's Rolls and Butter." There's also spiritualism ("It Is Well with My Soul") that doesn't even get near being trite. Despite all the musical bases that he touches, Chestnut never seems unfocused, nor is his attack forced. He seems genuinely comfortable no matter what he chooses to play.

We can all look forward to the many years of playing that Chestnut hopefully has. I think we'll find that this fine pianist has inexhaustible wells of inspiration from which to draw. What a treat for us to be able to listen.

y'gotta be kiddin'. . ........2000-07-07

rate Cyrus Chestnut? Have you heard his BAROQUE IMPRESSIONS on the PBS-TV special? I wouldn't presume to "rate" Cyrus Chestnut. It would be inadequately respectful. His was the best thing in the entire two hours, diminishing even Dave Brubeck and Billy Joel in their company. I got onto the net right away and ordered the CD the same night. Honestly! rate Cyrus Chestnut?

Great Cuts - Cyrus All The Way.......2000-03-25

I came upon Cyrus Chestnut several years ago at a listening station at a record store - Haven't turned back since. Cyrus has what it takes to be a truely great jazz pianist. I have been collecting his cd's since that time. I particularly enjoy Sentimentalia, Baroque Impressions, Call Me Later, and the title track. I glad I was turned on to this great artist. You will feel that way too once you experience his artistry.

Average customer rating:

Chestnut Hits the Mark

Cyrus Chestnut
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Soul Food
Dark Before the Dawn
Revelation
Genuine Chestnut
Earth Stories

ASIN: B00000AEDK
Release Date: 1998-09-15

Tracks:

Miss Thing
Summertime
The Journey
Elegant Flower (For Jazz'min)
Nutman's Invention #2
My Favorite Things
Any Way You Can
Mother's Blues
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Strolling In Central Park
Sharp

Amazon.com

Pianist Cyrus Chestnut can do it all. Equally adept playing with trios, groups, or alone, he tackles a broad range of styles with both taste and intelligence on this eclectic disc. Joined by some of jazz's finest players--James Carter, Joe Lovano, Billy Higgins, and Ron Carter--Chestnut jumps from the funky group interplay of "The Journey" to the swinging romp "Sharp" and into the mainstream with the addition of R&B vocalist Anita Baker on "My Favorite Things" and "Summertime." On his own, Chestnut strides smoothly through the sly Art Tatum-influenced "Nutman's Inventions" before displaying his background in gospel and classical music on a pair of meditative ballads, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "Elegant Flower (for Jazz'min). A rich, satisfying sampling of jazz. --Erik Pedersen

Customer Reviews:

Chestnut Hits the Mark.......1998-12-31

This album clearly establishes Chestnut as one of the great pianists of our time. The music is warm, Chestnut's playing is innovative, and the group's precision is flawless. The addition of James Carter (playing alto) and Joe Lovano to several tunes makes for excellent chemistry. Anita Baker's sultry and haunting vocals is a welcome addition to jazz and I look forward to hearing more. Chestnut's stylings transcend typical stereotypes. When I played "Elegant Flower" for my wife, her comment was "That's beautiful but I thought you said he plays jazz."

Average customer rating:

Cyrus IS the Sunshine!

You Are My Sunshine
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Revelation

ASIN: B00009OOHF
Release Date: 2003-07-08

Tracks:

God Has Smiled On Me
It's All Right With Me
For The Saints
Precious Lord
You Are My Sunshine
Erroling
Total Praise
Lighthearted Intelligence
Sweet Hour Of Prayer
Hope Song
Flipper
What A Fellowship
Pass me Not O Gentle Savior

Album Description

Acclaimed pianist Cyrus Chestnut make his Warner Bros. debut with 'You Are My Sunshine'. The followup to 2001's 'Soul Food', one of Down Beat's best albums of 2002 & Top 10 on the Jazz chart. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Cyrus IS the Sunshine!.......2003-07-19

As Cyrus' new website proclaims, sweet and soulful, describe not only the man, but also this CD. This is a very accessible, enjoyable and innovative CD. Cyrus' arrangements of such classics as Precious Lord and You are My Sunshine are soulful, playful and invigorated. His original works on the CD, including Lighthearted Intelligence and Flipper, are inspired and technically astounding. This CD will be sure to bring a little sunshine to your day.

Average customer rating:

high quality jazz with much soul
Some CD's are just plain good!
Great Great album
Great Expectations, but slightly dissapointed.
Top notch recording. Top of my play list.

Soul Food
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Dark Before the Dawn
Revelation
Genuine Chestnut

ASIN: B00005OATV
Release Date: 2001-10-16

Tracks:

Soul Food
Brother With The Mint Green Vine
Cerebral Thoughts
Fantasia
Swing Low Sweet Chariot
Brother Hawky Hawk
Minor Funk
Coming Through The Rye
In The Underground
Wellllll!
Goodnight

Amazon.com

Baltimore-born pianist Cyrus Chestnut has played with a number of stars, including Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, and opera diva Kathleen Battle. He's also an engaging leader in his own right, and this disc with drummer Lewis Nash and bassist Christian McBride finds him exploring and elaborating on soul music in a jazz context. Augmented by saxophonist James Carter, trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, and trumpeter Marcus Printup, Chestnut and company get into a lot of moods and grooves: from the Art Blakey-style, hard-bop edges of the title tune to the Horace Silver-themed "In the Underground" with vibraphonist Stefon Harris. Chestnut's musical education encompasses both the bandstand and the church service, and his reverent solo reading of "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" showcases his spellbinding and syncopated command of sacred and secular swing. --Eugene Holley Jr.

Customer Reviews:

high quality jazz with much soul.......2003-03-16

One just has to look at the line up of this album to know that this will be an enjoyable listening experience.

Soul Food finds Cyrus Chestnut in four different settings, in a large group with the trio of Chestnut, Christian McBride on bass, and Lewis Nash on drums augmenteded by Marcus Printup on trumpet, Wycliffe Gordon on trombone, and James Carter on tenor sax. Also there is the trio plus vibraphonist Stefon Harris, just the trio, and two songs where Chestnut is solo. All of the players are extremely virtuosic and play with effortless grace and soul. Chestnut shines on every song and plays with a refreshing lack of ego. He is always playing a solo totally conducive to the feel of the song. The rhythm section, as suspected is superb. There is also an appearance by Gary Bartz, the alto player at the end of the album in a sort of epilogue.

This is the kind of album that seems familiar yet new, and is extremely enjoyable and accessible upon first listen. The opener, "Soul Food," is classic soul jazz Jazz Messengers style with great solos by Printup, Carter, and Chestnut. It is an awesome song and the kind of song that sounds crisp, swings, and sounds like an old favorite the first time you hear it.

Other favorite tracks include Chestnut's powerful and amazing solo rendition of "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" where Cyrus takes a song everybody has heard a million times and makes it his own. It's just a musical treat.

I also really like the quiet and sweet "Cerebral Thoughts" with Stefon Harris which represents modern and somewhat smooth jazz that keeps its soul and an edge. Harris rarely plays anything i don't like.

This album flows really well and is also one of those albums that you can listen to front to back and over again without feeling bored as it varies the line ups throughout the album. This album is just a really enjoyable album from start to finish and should appeal to a wide range of people.

Some CD's are just plain good!.......2002-04-08

So often, current jazz artists go one of two ways - strictly re-creating the sounds of the classics, or going off on a "new age" tangent all of their own. "Soul Food" exemplifies what jazz is to me...from sing-song like melodies to driving grooves that force your head to bop. Cyrus Chestnut does his own thing, creating music all his own that really swings in the tradition of the great jazz greats. And what a combo! It's so good to hear that slap of an up-right bass holding down the groove. If you like jazz...you'll love this CD!

Great Great album.......2002-02-23

It has an excellent mix of rythms and styles. I bought it a couple of weeks ago and have listened to it several times since , I love it.

Great Expectations, but slightly dissapointed........2002-01-23

I thought this was such a great line up of artists! However once I really listened and observed the playing, I felt they really didn't get to stretch out! The compositions were great though! But I was slightly dissapointed!
Please buy it so u can rate it yourself.

Top notch recording. Top of my play list........2002-01-04

You know how you have a few favorite CDs that you can play multiple times a day and love it every time? This one does it for me. It's jumped right up there with Dave Grusin's Big Band Allstars Live - which I've probably listened to over 100x.

I bought this CD based on hearing "Minor Funk" on local radio station, WDCB, in the Chicago area (great Jazz all day). Took a chance on getting the CD and consider it the best music CD purchase decision of 2001 for me.

If you like upbeat, really goovin', funky jazz or mellow ballads, this CD has a nice mix. Most of the cuts are really hip. Great features of sax, vibes, trumpet to piano, drums and bass. Very nice cuts. A few are sure to be "classics".

Earth Stories
Average customer rating:

A gem

Powerful pianist!

Earth Stories
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
General | Jazz | Styles | Music
Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music
Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Dark Before the Dawn

Cyrus Chestnut

Revelation

Soul Food

You Are My Sunshine

ASIN: B000002J8U
Release Date: 1996-03-26

Tracks:

Decisions, Decisions
Grandmama's Blues
My Song In The Night
Nutman's Invention #1
Blues From The East
Cooldaddy's Perspective
Maria's Folly
East Of The Sun And West Of The Moon
Gomez
Whoopi
In The Garden

Customer Reviews:

A gem.......2002-07-05

Cyrus Chestnut is the kind of artist who pushes his art and his technique so far that you have to step back in wonder at the depths of his talent. I had a chance to see Mr. Chestnut's trio perform recently in a small jazz club in St. Paul, MN and over the span of two intimate sets, he simply dazzled the audience with his talent and style. It was an unforgettable night, and this CD is fully representative of the range Chestnut exhibited that evening.

Powerful pianist!.......2000-07-31

He has a special talent for composing beautiful songs.Compositions are not just motives nor material in this album .And listen to how the ensemble works ,how they interplay with each other.It's really tight.Combined with the dramatic compositions,dynamics of the band is incredible!Is this really a piano trio? This changed my notion of piano trio.

Before I came across his music ,I had been fed up with Bill Evans-ish pianists and Herbie Hancock-ish ones.(Don't get me wrong.I like Bill Evans and love Herbie Hancock!)Cyrus let me notice the different school of jazz piano tradition.I began to listen to pianists like Art Tatum,Oscar Peterson and so on.But,of course, he is not just a successor.He proves it in this album.Try it!

Tracks:

Revol
For All We Know
Duke Medley: Don't Get Around Much Anymore/I Got It Bad/I Let A Song Go Out Of My Heart/It Don't...
My Funny Valentine
Blue Skies
Alone Together
Alone In Love With Love
Jambalaya

Customer Reviews:

These guys can play!.......1999-01-05

I have heard the Cyrus Chestnut Trio in concert and you would not believe the sounds that they can evoke from their instruments! Not only the speed is amazing but the quality of sound is flawless! The whole audience was enthralled the entire evening and called the trio back onto the stage for an encore that was followed by a rich and enthusiastic applause. This CD is nothing less than another fabulous album that demonstrates (once again) the ingenuity, style, and talent of the Cyrus Chestnut Trio!

Average customer rating:

The Man SWINGS!
Cyrus Purveys Class and Beauty

Revelation
Cyrus Chestnut
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Dark Before the Dawn
Cyrus Chestnut
Earth Stories
Soul Food
Genuine Chestnut

ASIN: B000002IWG
Release Date: 1994-01-18

Tracks:

Blues For Nita
Elegie
Lord, Lord, Lord
Macdaddy
Sweet Hour Of Prayer
Little Ditty
187
Dilemmas
Revelation
Proverbial Lamet
Cornbread Pudding

Customer Reviews:

The Man SWINGS! .......2006-02-18

Soulful, Jazzy, classical, blues and Gospel elements are all felt by one of B-More's finest musicians. These tunes never get old,
Blues for Nita, 187 (A address # he once had) etc. CC loves to build his creshendo to a point, swinging strong. Great communication and work with this trio. Little Diddy and Macdaddy are other strong uptempo numbers. Sweet hour of prayer is where
CC shows some of his gospel roots.

Cyrus Purveys Class and Beauty.......2000-08-03

I first got started listening to jazz when I was a junior in high school. Cyrus Chestnut's Revelation was one of my first jazz albums and I still love it. I'm hoping to get some more here from Amazon in the near future. Cyrus Chestnut is the materialization of successful, classical, and great jazz artistry by a Black musician.

Average customer rating:

GENIUS! Too Cool for School!
Tremendous CD - and even better live
A concept album that really works
Surprisingly effective concept album
Believe the hype

Gold Sounds
James Carter , Cyrus Chestnut , Ali Jackson , and Reginald Veal
Manufacturer: Brown Brothers Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

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Shades of Jade

ASIN: B000AMYJK0
Release Date: 2005-09-27

Tracks:

Stereo
My First Mine
Cut Your Hair
Summer Babe
Blue Hawaiian
Here
Platform Blues
Trigger Cut/Wounded Kite At :17

Album Description

Gold Sounds is a Cd containing jazz interpretations of Pavement songs. This music will get under your skin, into your mind and deep into your heart. Repeat listens will reveal the unending creativity of this band. A great CD for jazz and Pavement fans.

Customer Reviews:

GENIUS! Too Cool for School!.......2005-12-10

Finally someone comes up with an interesting concept album that WORKS! and is not a cheesy collaberation that some old famous person would try to sell me at 3am when i cant sleep. I saw them live at the Iridium in New York City this weekend and the CD captures the magic. I have loved pavement since my teens and i slipped into my jazz pajamas in my 30s. Was this album made for me??? get it and be the coolest in your class.

Tremendous CD - and even better live.......2005-12-05

I'm afraid that I don't have the musical acumen that would allow me to adequately review this album complete with sophisticated musicalese terms as others have already done. I'll give you my quick, fresh assessment, while the memory of seeing the band play live last night at the Iridium in New York City is still happily bouncing around in my mind.

My wife and I have been big fans of Cyrus Chestnutt for some time, so when we learned that a business trip would bring us to NYC this weekend, we got tickets to see "Gold Sounds" live at the Iridium. We also bought the CD beforehand, and compared the "Gold Sounds" versions with the Pavement originals.

To make a long story short, "Gold Sounds" is wonderful, and seeing the band live helps to understand why.

I hadn't seen James Carter before, but the dude is the coolest sax-man I've perhaps ever seen. He can play any instrument, and make notes come out of whatever he's playing like nothing you've ever heard. Plus, he is as cool as dry ice in a deep freeze - if he doesn't become a superstar of jazz, I'll be shocked.

Based on the CDs we own, I was worried that Cyrus wasn't going to rock out - my mistake. He deftly worked "Smoke On The Water" riffs into his solo "Trigger Cut", which was fantastic, and he really helped drive the forcefulness of the live show (as he does on the CD).

Reginald Veal was a revelation on bass. Live, he played electric much of the time, and he carried many of the tunes, and sung nicely (as he does on the CD) during "Cut Your Hair".

Drummer Ali Jackson was also great - everyone else in the band is so good that you might be tempted to overlook him, but you shouldn't. Listen to the CD - his percussion is unconventional in spots, but as you'll see (hear?) it's just what every track needed.

Hearing the CD after seeing the band live is amazing - the CD makes even more sense now, but even if you don't get to see this band do these tunes live, you will love the CD.

I've seen a ton of jazz concerts during the past decade, but last night's show was perhaps the best one I've ever seen. It's so rare to capture four talented jazz musicians all contributing equally with such success - buy this CD! You won't be disappointed. And, if you can, see this live! It kills.

A concept album that really works.......2005-11-22

No band name. Gold Sounds is album title. All four musicians are outstanding. Effective use of a rock source [Pavement] to produce really great jazz. I will be playing this cd many times. A keeper.

Surprisingly effective concept album.......2005-11-15

Concept albums are tricky business, especially in the jazz world. When producers deliver a hand picked group of world class jazz improvisers material outside of their typical sphere of inspiration to re-arrange and improvise, it does not necessarily make for a solid album. While one would not be surprised to find multi-instrumentalist James Carter, keyboardist Cyrus Chestnut, bassist Reginald Veal and newcomer, drummer Ali Jackson playing together, it is surprising to hear them tackling covers of Pavement tunes.

One of indie rock's most beloved of groups, Pavement was often imitated, but rarely equaled. With strong, often quirky melodies and unconventional song structures, Pavement's tunes are actually ripe vehicles for improvisation. That fact alone does not guarantee success. While "Gold Sounds" is an interesting experiment, it falls short of perfection, but surprisingly, not by much.

It is hard to imagine any of these musicians having listened to Pavement in their prime, and therefore having a vested interest in the faithfulness of their interpretations. But that willingness to re-arrange and invert these already heady structures is what makes the album a success. By not falling victim to fanboy like respect, these four expand already strong pieces into vehicles for improvisation that are by turns more complex and listenable than the average pop tune.

While James Carter has tendency to showboat on occasion, with a truckload of pyrotechnic techniques at his disposal, here his indulgences pay off. By peppering his phrases with slippery, shrill soprano twists and sputtered, multiphonic tenor blasts, Carter enriches what could otherwise become a lifeless exercise in transposing vocals to instrumental melody lines. Cyrus Chestnut alternates between piano, Fender Rhodes and Hammond B-3, sometimes playing more than one at a time. Former Wynton Marsalis bassist Reginald Veal alternates between his typical acoustic upright to play electric half the time, while previously unheard, but inventive percussionist Ali Jackson holds down the time with a stalwart groove.

Some of the tunes benefit considerably by their arrangements, others, less so. After the opening blast of "Stereo," the transition to the lyrical line is a bit awkward, but the quartet quickly finds its footing and delivers a solid improvisation based on a familiar theme. "Cut Your Hair," originally an upbeat, anthemic, shout along concert favorite, here is taken at a slower pace, with a Gospel flavor, complete with Hammond B-3 organ washes. Featuring wordless harmonic singing, the only vocals on the album, the cut has an air of the surreal to it. Concluding with a double timed climax of fervent proportions, the entire piece feels like some long lost 1970s Musical Theater production number rescued from the cutting room floor. "Summer Babe" delivers the right optimistic mood, complete with deliciously tormented tenor solo. "My First Mine" an early B-Side with a bouncy Fall-like riff hardly sounds like the original at all. Re-imagined as Dixieland, so distant from its source as to be a new composition altogether, it is enriched with strong rhythmic interplay, making the piece as singular as any on the album.

Numerous Pavement tunes embody a quirky sensibility more akin to jazz harmony and melody than typical pop song structure, and these cuts are the strongest on the album. "Blue Hawaiian," with its odd meter and phrasing, works perfectly with the quartet's winding improvisation. Featuring shimmery Fender Rhodes lines and Carter's velvety to eviscerating tenor, the piece expands like an early fusion experiment, all space and dark ambience. "Platform Blues", from Pavement's final album, originally an Allman Brothers like jam, lends itself perfectly to the group's bluesy vamping. Carter tears it up on tenor while Jackson drops press rolls left and right around him with the rest of the group flailing in spurts. Indicative of the best of both worlds, "Platform Blues" retains both the structure of the original piece while inverting the form enough to make it valid as a jazz vehicle.

Ones appreciation of this material is going to be dependent on their relationship with both Pavement and the assembled musicians. Conservative fans of either stripe will likely cry foul (unless of course, someone tells them to like it). This is unfortunate, as the quartet has done a stellar job at re-contextualizing familiar songs that have become the classic rock of an entire generation.

Believe the hype.......2005-10-30

This is one of the purest musical albums of the year. The playing is superb, as you'd expect with this lineup, the song selection is top notch, as you'd expect from Pavement, but there is something more too. Stereo starts things off with a funky head followed by a melodic sax on the verse. From there the band goes abstract, but always stays in contact with the melody before a rousing finish.

My First Mine is a spirited be-bop workout which changes tempo and converts to a samba beat, with Carter blowing like a wild man near the end.

Cut Your Hair starts out as a bluesy slow-down of one of Malkmus' most indelible melodies, but speeds up for a jokey, but still heartfelt and soulful vocal finish.

Summer Babe keeps the fun going with Veal's innovative bass-work while Carter hammers the melody home with brio.

Blue Hawaiian is where you know the album will be more than just a light-hearted-though-well-played romp. Although I have heard Cyrus Chestnut before and always knew he was a great piano player, I never knew he could add these kinds of shadings and dimensions on electric keyboard. Carter follows his lead and keeps this one introspective and layered.

Next up is Here, which is either the most heartbreakingly beautiful jazz ballad in some time or the tune where Carter achieves on soprano what he has been doing for years on baritone. Play this one late at night, with the lights dimmed, and try not to get choked up.

Platform Blues is the key track to the whole album. The band is never more cohesive than on this one, which is the most rock-and-roll feeling track on the record even though its textures are straight jazz. Carter's deep horn at the end fades into a series of whale sounds unlike anything I have ever heard. Deep, rich stuff.

Finally, Chestnut's solo piano Trigger Cut ends the record with poignancy and humor, perfectly putting a cap on the record. I have not enjoyed another record more this year and I keep playing it over and over.

Average customer rating:

Sounds from Charlie Brown Christmas
Chestnut is my new favorite jazz musician
NOT the original, but solid and enjoyable nonetheless
Complements the "original" - stands on its own
Not quite Charlie, but don't let it stop you!

Charlie Brown Christmas
Cyrus Chestnut & Friends , Peanuts (Related Recordings) , and Charles M. Schulz (Tribute)
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Children's Music | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Pop Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music

Pop Vocal | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
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Genuine Chestnut

ASIN: B00004U9MM
Release Date: 2000-09-19

Tracks:

Me And Charlie Brown (Piano Solo)
Skating
My Little Drum
The Christmas Song
Baby Dance
Fur Elise
What Child Is This?
Linus And Lucy
O Tannenbaum
Christmas Time Is Here
Me And Charlie Brown
Christmas Is Coming
Greensleeves
Hark, The Herald Angels Sing

Amazon.com

Jazz pianist Cyrus Chestnut knows a good thing when he hears it, and the music of A Charlie Brown Christmas, set forth so eloquently by the Vince Guaraldi Trio decades ago, is one of them. The pianist is backed here by a bevy of New York's premier session players and jazz stars: drummer Steve Gadd; ace sax players Michael Brecker, Kenny Garrett, and Steve Cole; and guitarist Pat Martino. Chestnut proves as inventive as always, playing with lighthearted wit and lyrical sophistication. He captures the whimsy of such Peanuts classics as "Skating" and the winning interplay of "Linus and Lucy," delightfully mixing it up with Martino's guitar figures. Chestnut also pays fond homage to the whole Peanuts gang with his memorable opening solo, "Me and Charlie Brown." Joined by Vanessa Williams and the Boys Choir of Harlem on "Christmas Time Is Here," Chestnut and company work their understated magic on this and other traditional fare. Somewhere, Charles Schultz is nodding his head in time to these lovely tunes and updates. --Martin Keller

Customer Reviews:

Sounds from Charlie Brown Christmas.......2005-12-21

Instead of comparing CYRUS CHESNUT AND FRIENDS: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS to Vince Guaraldi's original Charlie Brown Christmas, what comes to mind when hearing Chesnut's version is an excellent collection of Christmas songs old and new. Chesnut pays homage to his childhood memory as well as many other children's and adult's memories of songs and images of the Christmas season, which includes Santa, Rudolph, and especially the Peanuts gang who show us all what the real meaning of Christmas is.

What is different from Guaraldi's record are two Chesnut original compositions, "Me and Charlie Brown" and the short "Baby Dance". Chesnut tickles the ivories with this relaxing and refreshing melody, which then proceeds to his version of "Skating" and "My Little Drum". Most of the tracks on the record are quite listenable all the way through. The record contains guest vocalists, Vanessa Williams, Brian McKnight, and the Manhattan Transfer who accompany Chesnut to memorable renditions of "The Christmas Song", "What Child Is This?", "Christmas Time Is Here," whic is one of the highlights of the record with its glorious choral accompaniment by the Boys Choir of Harlem. These tunes add a smooth jazz tone to the album as well as other notable tracks, such as the Latin sounding version of "Fur Elise", which may suit Salsa dancers out there, Peanuts' theme, "Linus and Lucy," and to add a little of jazz funk to the mix, "Christmas Is Coming." And to top off the record, the closing tracks, Greensleeves" and "Hark The Herald Angels Sing" are two perennial favorites not to miss.

CYRUS CHESNUT AND FRIENDS is the perfect record to play during any Christmas gathering or during a relaxing end of the day.

Chestnut is my new favorite jazz musician.......2003-12-05

I first heard bits of this CD on a NPR show several years ago and then bought the album. I love Chestnut's playing, which is so versatile, and the incredible riffs of the other jazz musicians on this cd. I know most people love to hate "Little Drummer Boy" but the blues rendition on this CD is just amazing, particularly the trombone solo. And I also love the calypso version of Fur Elise. The Greensleeves is amazing also.

NOT the original, but solid and enjoyable nonetheless.......2003-01-16

This is a great tribute to the original Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack that most of us remember. However, the key word is "tribute."

Each song on this recording has its own "twist" from the originals, whether it is subtle or dramatic. Cyrus' arrangements are ultra-pleasant to listen to, as is the bulk of his other recorded work. As such, these updated songs which reflect the love put into them by Cyrus SUPPLEMENT Vince Guaraldi's original 1965 sessions, rather than REPLACE them. Nothing ever could replace the originals, especially for us purists! (I'm sure Cyrus himself feels the same way!)

So...keep an open mind -- and enjoy the smooth and mellow stylings of this recording that gets better with each listen.

Complements the "original" - stands on its own.......2002-12-13

I received this CD from a giver who thought it was the original Guaraldi CD; so I was a little disappointed at first - but this recording has grown on me. Chestnut has reproduced the original Guaraldi themes on a few tracks, but more of the tracks are variations on his own new theme (stated in Track 1), mixed with new arrangements of Christmas standards and solid backing from a list of light jazz all-stars. I have both this CD and the Guaraldi Christmas in the changer, and shuffle them together - a perfect blend.

Not quite Charlie, but don't let it stop you!.......2001-12-21

Having read some of the other reviews, I felt a need to respond. Of course it's not exactly like the TV special's soundtrack - what would be the point of that? No one can duplicate the marvelous, timeless work of Vince Guaraldi, but Mr. Chestnut does an excellant interpretive turn on it. Yeah, it's different, but it's remarkable jazz, wonderfully musical, and adds a little modernistic zing into the classics. If you want EXACTLY the soundtrack, then don't bother. If you like variety and true jazz, you will love this twist on V.Guaraldi's classics. Even Lucy couldn't find fault with this album (I DARE you not to get up and dance to this Latin-flavored "Fur Elise"!!).

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